November 30 -- "Finding Delight in God's Counsel"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 1, 2, & 15

"Finding Delight in God's Counsel"

What sorts of things bring you DELIGHT? For some, they are delighted when they get to spend quality time with a crush or a mate. For others, it is a delicious meal at their favorite restaurant. Still others find delight in the victory of their favorite sports team or their candidate for political office. Some find delight in personal achievements such as graduations, weight loss, or a promotion at work. Sadly, many find their pleasure in the ways of sin, following the ways of the world and the counsel of the wicked.

David declares here that he finds his greatest enjoyment, pleasure, and gladness in the law of the Lord. He was a man who loved God’s word and delighted whenever he could simply enjoy basking in the truth of the Holy Scriptures. In Psalm 1, he draws a contrast between the person who finds his or her counsel in God’s word and finds great joy therein versus the person who walks in the counsel of the ungodly, stands with sinners, and sits with scoffers. And what a contrast it is!

For those who forego the pleasures of God’s truth and choose instead to find their gratification in worldly pursuits, the future is bleak.  They are like “the chaff which the wind drives away.” This analogy of the wheat chaff carries the idea of being here-today-and-gone-tomorrow. They have no staying power and will one day be blown away by the judgment of God. Those who choose sin over holiness and self-gratification over Divine blessing will not stand on the day of judgment.

BUT! Those of us who find delight and pleasure and enjoyment in the word of the Lord are destined for an eternity of blessing. Unlike the chaff which is blown away, the delighters in God’s truth are strong and fruitful. They are like trees planted by the rivers of water bearing fresh fruit every month, never dropping a leaf, always in blossom. Choosing to follow Jesus and to be doers of His word is by far the greatest choice any person can make.

Do the Scriptures delight you? Do you find your greatest enjoyment, pleasure, and gladness in those moments spent with God finding counsel in His word? If so, your life will be strong and fruitful for His eternal kingdom. “For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands.” (Isaiah 55:12)

November 29 -- "Ascribe Glory to the Lord"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 16

"Ascribe Glory to the Lord"

1 Chronicles 16 describes for us the awesome worship celebration which broke out after the Ark of the Covenant was finally returned to Israel and placed in Jerusalem. The Levites brought the Ark and then they thanked, praised, and made offerings to the Lord for His wonderful works. David even prepared a feast for the nation and “distributed to all Israel, both men and women, to each a loaf of bread, a portion of meat, and a cake of raisins.” What an amazing and awesome day. It was a time for rejoicing in the goodness of God and declaring His glory.

In verse 29, as part of David’s song of thanks, he says “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name.” The word “ascribe” means “to give credit to; to attribute to; to assign.” Here, David is calling upon the people of Israel to give due credit to the Lord for His glory and wonderful works. He calls them to shout words of highest praise because the Lord is worthy. In awe of the glory and strength of the Lord, sing praise and shout “hooray” to Him. In view of all he had done for them, God’s people were urged to praise Him and to proclaim His mighty acts aloud to others.

David was deeply concerned about the passionate worship of Yahweh. He strongly believed that worship should not simply be a “casual sing-a-long” that we half-heartedly indulge in once a week, but it should and MUST be a time of complete abandonment of ourselves to declare the glory of the Lord. Our worship should be an expression of our deep, heartfelt love for our Creator. David played. David sang. David danced. All of his being was immersed in the worship of His Awesome Creator!

It is so easy to be distracted during times of worship and praise. Our minds begin to wander. Our thoughts turn to the activities going on in our home, our work, our hobbies, our life. When that happens, our lips may still move, but our heart is not engaged. This is when we should “check ourselves” and turn our attention fully back to the God who created us, who loves us, and who has brought us His awesome redemption through the blood of His Son. “Great is the Lord, and highly to be praised, and His greatness is unsearchable.” (Psalm 145:3)

Take a moment NOW and ascribe (give credit to) the Lord the glory due His name. Come before Him and worship Him in the splendor of holiness, “For great is the Lord, and greatly to be praised” (V25). Do it with abandonment. Immerse yourself in worship.

November 28 -- "Unwavering Commitment to God's Word"

Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 15 

"Unwavering Commitment to God's Word"

It’s a big day in Israel! It is finally time to bring the Ark of the Covenant to its new home. David had prepared a special place for the Ark in the city and pitched a tent there to cover it. The darkness and defeat which had marked the final days of king Saul’s reign were finally giving way to God’s light and new hope for the nation. Holy worship was returning to Israel. It is a happy day. It is a day for rejoicing!

You’ll remember that back in 2 Samuel 6 and 1 Chronicles 13, David and the Israelites had failed on their first attempt to bring the Ark to Jerusalem. As the ark was being transported, the oxen pulling the cart stumbled, and a man named Uzzah took hold of the ark. God’s anger burned against Uzzah and He struck him down and he died. There are some reasons why God took such severe action.

God is a God of precision. And He expects us to follow His word precisely. God had given Moses very specific instructions for carrying the Ark and the rest of the holy things from the Tabernacle. The Lord had specified that when the Ark was ready to move, the Levites were to come to do the carrying. It was not to be placed on a cart and pulled by oxen. The Levites were to insert carrying poles into the rings on the Ark and carry it on their shoulders. God was very specific about this. No matter how innocently it was done, touching the ark was in direct violation of God’s law and did not honor His holiness.  

When God gives precise instructions, we must follow His words precisely.  When God told Noah to build the Ark, He gave Him precise instructions – the materials to use, the dimensions, the number of animals, etc. And Noah followed God’s instructions precisely. In the time of Moses, the people knew the awesomeness of God’s absolute holiness. They had witnessed great miracles when the ark was with them. They respected that God’s ways and thoughts were much higher than theirs. 

Tragically today, many people within the Church have lost that sense of God’s holiness and following His word with precision. They try to ignore His commands to: pray continually, study His word, fellowship with others, worship Him, and share His good news. They live worldly lives close to sin and indulge in acts God doesn’t approve of because they don’t have a healthy respect for His holiness and a passion to follow His words precisely. They claim the name of Christ, but they are not doers of His word. They have lost (or never had) and unwavering commitment to God's Word.

Fortunately for David, they acknowledged the error of their ways. They repented of their lackadaisical approach to carrying the Ark and so today is a happy day in Israel. The Ark finally arrives at its new home.  Notice verse 14 & 15: “So the priests and the Levites consecrated themselves to bring up the ark of the Lord, the God of Israel.  And the Levites carried the ark of God on their shoulders with the poles, as Moses had commanded according to the word of the Lord.” They returned to following His word precisely and God honored them for it, just as He will honor you for your unwavering commitment to His Word.

November 27 -- "Peace Through Strength"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 13 & 14

"Peace Through Strength"

God blessed David and his kingdom because David honored God.  As a result of David’s victories against other nations (especially the dreaded Phillistines), the neighboring peoples began to fear him. Verse 17 tells us that “the Lord brought the fear of [David] upon all nations.” As the neighboring nations observed the strength of Israel, God put a fear into their hearts and minds. The result was that Israel’s enemies were afraid to go up against them for fear of devastating losses.

We see this as the Lord placing a “hedge of protection” around David and Israel. The term “hedge of protection” comes from the book of Job. It is taken from Satan’s comments about the fact that he was unable to do any harm to Job because God had “put a hedge around him and his household and everything he has.” (Job 1:9-10)  In ancient times, people would often place a hedge of thorn bushes surrounding their homes to keep wolves, bears, leopards, and hyenas away. The Bible uses this practice to describe God’s protection around Job and his household.

In the same way, God placed a hedge of protection around David and his kingdom. He didn’t do this with physical thorn bushes, but with a spiritual move upon the hearts and minds of people. He placed a fear of David upon the nations.

A thorn hedge is an appropriate metaphor for the protection God gives His followers. As believers, we should ask for the Lord to put a hedge of protection around our lives, our families, our marriages, our communities, our churches, and our nation. With His protection, our enemies cannot prosper against us. As Isaiah said, “No weapon that is fashioned against you shall succeed, and you shall confuse every tongue that rises against you in judgment. This is the heritage of the servants of the Lord and their vindication from me, declares the Lord.” (Isaiah 54:17)

God will bless those who honor Him. As we trust in Him, our enemies (the world, the flesh, the devil) will fall back in fear and we, like David, can experience “peace through strength.” He will gladly place His protection around our lives. “But the Lord is faithful. He will establish you and guard you against the evil one.” (2 Thessalonians 3:3)

November 26 -- "Can You Feel The Music?"

 Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 6

"Can You Feel The Music?"

Listen! Can you hear the music? David and all the house of Israel are rejoicing with songs of celebration. The musical instruments are playing, the choir is leading and the people are ringing out with songs of celebration before the Lord. It is a happy and melodic moment.

They have a lot to celebrate. David has just been inaugurated as Israel’s new king and the Ark of the Covenant has just been re-captured from the Phillistines. The crowds are returning to Jerusalem with great excitement and joy.

The distinctly Hebrew music can be heard for miles. Singing, dancing, and praising the Lord. Some of the instruments being played are mentioned in verse 5: the lyre (a stringed instrument like a small U-shaped harp with strings fixed to a crossbar); the harp (most likely a small lyre-shaped musical instrument held between the teeth and struck with a finger); the tambourines (also called “timbrel” – a percussion instrument resembling a shallow drum with small metal disks in slots around the edge), castanets (a long handled instrument with metal rings at the end); and cymbals (two metal plates attached to each hand of and struck together to produce a great noise). Can you hear it? Can you feel it? Oh, what joy!

If we were able to step into the Old Testament period, we would find a culture filled with music, where people used music in their daily lives. Both the Old and New Testaments address music and strongly support its use in worship. The extensive collection of actual songs found in the Old Testament indicates the importance and value God places on creative musical expression. Music’s use in worship in the church today is valuable and can honor God in a special way.

God's people have always used music to express their innermost feelings of praise for our God and Father. In Ephesians 5:18-19, we are encouraged to incorporate music into our relationship with God, “Be filled with the Spirit. Sing the words and tunes of the psalms and hymns when you are together, and go on singing and chanting to the Lord in your hearts.”  The Bible never says, let those who have beautiful voices sing, as if natural talent were required to praise God. The Bible just says “Sing!” Over and over, dozens of times, we are commanded to sing: sing to the Lord, sing praises, sing joyfully, sing a new song. Come into God’s presence with singing. Do it now.

November 25 -- "Doing as the Lord Commands"

 Today’s Reading: 2 Samuel 5

"Doing as the Lord Commands"

We can learn a lot by watching others. We can learn from their successes – and we can also learn from their mistakes. We can become more victorious in our lives by watching the lives of happy and influential people around us and following their example. We can also protect ourselves from failure by watching what happened to others who have fallen and avoiding their mistakes.

Remember Saul, Israel’s first king? He began his reign by being humble and obedient to the Lord also. And the Lord promoted him and gave him success. But then he began to drift away. He became proud and self-centered and stopped obeying the commands of the Lord. As a result, his kingdom began to whither and his victories turned into failures. Eventually, Saul’s kingdom was taken from him and given to David, the shepherd from Bethlehem.

David watched all of this take place. He watched as Saul became a strong ruler and began defeating Israel’s enemies. He watched as Saul’s kingdom expanded and his majesty increased. But he also watched as Saul began to decline. He knew first hand how Saul became irrational and agitated and how he disobeyed the commands of the Lord on several occasions. Having closely observed Saul’s demise, David learned some powerful lessons for his own life and kingdom.

David learned a lot from observing Saul’s life. And the biggest life lesson he learned was this: do as the Lord commands. Don’t take shortcuts. Don’t think you know better or have a genius strategy. Simply listen to the Lord and obey His commands for your life. If He says, “go out and confront the Phillistines,” then go out (V19). But if He says, “go around to the rear,” then follow His command (V23).

Second Samuel 5 describes David’s rise to power as the new king of Israel. Verse 10 says, “David became greater and greater, for the Lord, the God of hosts, was with him.” And verse 25 tells us why David was so successful: “David did as the Lord commanded him.”

The only way to ensure success in your Christian life is to “trust and obey.” Seek the Lord. Inquire of the Lord. Listen to the Lord. Then do as the Lord commands. You have the power of the Holy Spirit within you to make your obedience a reality. He will give you great success in your spiritual journey if you do.

November 24 -- "Satisfaction For Your Longing Soul"

Today’s Reading: Psalm 107

 

"Satisfaction For Your Longing Soul"

Human beings were originally created as complete and whole individuals, living in fellowship with their Creator. The human soul was in a constant state of satisfaction and contentment. Peace ruled in the human heart because God ruled in the human heart. The soul of man was filled with good things. But then came the fall of humanity, where, through one act of disobedience to God, a previously unknown hunger entered the human heart. Mankind had been separated from God and, as a result, the soul of human beings now feels empty and hungry and unfulfilled. This hunger is nothing more than a deep longing to be restored to fellowship with God. To have that deep connection to the God who loves us and who also longs for us to be restored to Him.

The good news is that God has made provision for this emptiness in the longing human soul. He has offered each and every one of us the opportunity to experience a return to the complete and whole existence the original humans once enjoyed. In His grace and love, He doesn’t leave us without the amazing opportunity to return to that state of satisfaction and contentment. He has given us a way to have our soul filled with good things once again.

Satisfaction for the longing soul comes from only one source – Him. Notice in verse 9, we are told that “He” satisfies the longing soul and “He” fills the hungry soul with good things. Searching for this sense of wholeness and contentment in our soul in anyone or anything other than Him, will leave you empty and frustrated. You won’t find it in relationships with others. You won’t find it in a healthy body. You won’t find it in riches and wealth. You won’t find it in higher education. You won’t find it in new age spiritual pursuits. You won’t find it in bigger houses or faster cars or bigger bank accounts. You won’t find it in mind-altering substances or by “drowning your sorrows” with alcohol or drugs. Nope. You can only find true satisfaction for your longing soul in one Person – the Living God.

Verse 8 says, “Blessed be the LORD for His steadfast love, for His wondrous works to the children of man!” What a blessing it is to be restored to that right relationship with our Heavenly Father who loves us and sent His Son to restore us to Him. You no longer have to spend your life longing for peace and striving for satisfaction.  All you need to do is come to Jesus, confess your sins to Him, and by faith receive His free gift of satisfaction for your longing soul.

He longs for you. You long for Him. It’s a “match made in Heaven!”  Simply put, if you return to Him, He will restore your peace and fulfill your soul with good things. As Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)

November 23 -- "The Pleasantness of Unity"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 106 & 133

"The Pleasantness of Unity"

The “Songs of Ascent” are a special group of Psalms comprised of Psalms 120—134. Also known as “Pilgrim Songs,” these songs were sung by the Jews while on their way to the great Jewish feasts in Jerusalem.  They are called songs of “ascent” because Jerusalem is situated on a mountain and to get there, you had to climb one of the uphill roads which led to the city. The pilgrims that flowed from the towns and villages of Judea and Samaria would sing these songs together on the roads, the hills echoing with their songs. 

It must have been an incredible experience to walk together with crowds of other worshippers up the hills to the city while singing these songs together. Each of the Pilgrim Songs offered encouragement and joy for those seeking to worship God. The lyrics of this song collection cover a broad range of the peoples’ relationship with God such as: God’s presence during distress; joyful praise; God’s mercy; the joy of the Lord; repentance; and a cry for help to the Lord. In Psalm 133, king David focuses on the blessing of unity and harmony amongst the people of God.

As David looked down from his palace, seeing the thousands upon thousands of faithful worshippers working their way up the hill, he was struck by the profound blessing of unity. He noticed everyone singing in “unison” and it impressed on his heart the beauty of oneness and harmony amongst God’s people. It’s an amazing thing how music binds people together. Especially music sung in worship of God.

As David views this spectacle of the pilgrims ascending the mountain, he proclaims “How wonderful and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony!” David here draws our attention to something good and pleasant – unity among the people of God. It is good because it reflects God’s heart and purpose of oneness among His people. It is pleasant because it makes life together as God’s people so much more enjoyable than seasons when constant bickering and conflict dominate.

In His final hours upon Earth, Jesus prayed for this type of pleasant unity and harmony amongst His followers. In John 17:20-23, He asked, “that they may be one even as we are one, I in them and You in Me, that they may become perfectly one.”

Knowing that unity is God’s will for His people, every believer should pray for oneness as Jesus did, and should work to have good and peaceable relationships with all others (Romans 12:18).

November 22 -- "Understanding The Times"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 12

"Understanding The Times"

Isn’t it a wonderful thing when you know – really know – what you should do? Often we struggle with indecision because we aren’t sure what course to take. Indecision exists across the entire human experience. Sometimes, indecision is personal… Should I go to school? Or take that job? Should I move to a new city? Or stay where I am? Sometimes, indecision is among a community or church body… Which pastor should we hire? Should we spend more money on outreach? Sometimes, indecision occurs within the highest levels of government… Should we require people to wear masks? Or get vaccinated? Should we go to war with another nation? Should we spend taxpayer’s money on certain government programs? Indecision has been known to paralyze people, communities, churches, and entire nations.

David recognized the vital importance of being discerning and decisive, so he gathered people around him to aid in directing the affairs of the nation. Uniquely chosen amongst David’s appointments of leaders were the men from the tribe of Issachar, who were chosen to serve as intelligence gatherers and strategists. Verse 32 says these men “had understanding of the times” and knew “what Israel ought to do.” David wisely placed these men within his new government because he knew the importance of being discerning and decisive as the king.

It has been said that “knowledge” is understanding information, while “wisdom” is knowing what to do with that information. These men from Issachar were uniquely gifted with both knowledge and wisdom. They had the ability to discern the times, knowing how to direct the king and the nation. Discernment is NOT the ability to know right from wrong, it is the ability to know right from “almost right.” What a joy it is when we are so tuned in to our Heavenly Father in such a way that we comprehend the situation and see which path is the right path. These men of Issachar were perceptive about what was going on in the world around them and, as a result, they were uniquely gifted to guide the king and the country.

In our day, it is critical that every follower of Christ be discerning. We must understand the times in which we live so we can be equipped to know what we ought to do. The gift of discerning of spirits is one of the most needed gifts in the Body of Christ today. ”The Spirit explicitly says that in later times some will fall away from the faith, paying attention to deceitful spirits and doctrines of demons.” (1 Timothy 4:1) Jesus's mandate that we become "wise as serpents and harmless as doves" (Matthew 10:16) implies that we must develop supernatural discernment, the ability to detect subtle spiritual irregularities and act accordingly.

Your Heavenly Father loves you intensely and completely. From that love comes His desire that you be discerning and decisive as you follow His will. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your path.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)

November 21 -- "Mighty Men"

Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 11 

"Mighty Men"

First Chronicles 11 lists a group of people known as the “mighty men” of David. They are also referred to as the “thirty chiefs” or simply “the Thirty.” These mighty men of David were a group of David’s toughest military warriors who were credited with heroic feats. Some of these mighty men of David had considerable military skill. David’s mighty men served an important role in protecting the king and fighting for the freedom of their nation, the land of Israel.

This is a story about some ordinary guys whose reputations grow because of the way they live their lives. They are not just men. They are men’s men. Heroes, forever honored in the "hall of faith" of the Bible because of how they handled their lives and their service to God and the king.

In verse 10, we are told that these men gave David “strong support in his kingdom.”  It is so critical for any leader called by God to have a strong support network undergirding his/her ministry. Whenever God raises up a person to do a work, He will raise up “Mighty Men and Women” to help do that work. David's mighty men were mighty in valor, mighty in faith, and anointed with the power of God, and totally supported him and his kingdom. They were not afraid to risk and to sacrifice. They offered their lives on the altar of the king. Why? Because they loved the Lord and believed in the king and his calling to ministry.

Oh, how we all need people like this in our lives! People who love the Lord, who believe in us, and believe in the ministry God has called us to. Our strength in ministry comes from the Holy Spirit, but oh what a blessing it is when you can rely on your support network to stand with you every step of the way.  These are the type of people who will pray for you, pray with you, take risk and sacrifice for you, and do their best to make sure you succeed in that thing to which God has called you.

Is God calling you to be a mighty man or woman? Could you be a person like this in someone’s life? Perhaps the Lord is calling you to be a blessing to someone else in ministry – to pray for them, to support them, the help them succeed. Does your pastor need a support team? 72% of pastors report working up to 55 to 75 hours per week. Up to one third of pastors struggle with anxiety and depression – sometimes because they feel “all alone” in ministry. Every pastor needs some mighty men and women to stand with them in their ministry, as does every missionary, every youth minister, every Christian author, everyone who serves Christ in any manner.

Look around. Who do you see who could use your strong support in ministry? Prayerfully ask God to make you into their “mighty man” or “mighty woman.” Take the risk and be a hero to someone today.

November 20 -- "God's Wildly Wonderful World"

Today’s Reading: Psalm 104 

"God's Wildly Wonderful World"

Today, we pause for a moment to consider what a wildly wonderful and extravagant world God has made! The earth overflows with His genius creative works.

The theme of today’s psalm of praise is the wisdom and power of God as seen in nature. The song begins by considering the splendor of the heavens. The light of the sun, the expanse of sky reaching down to meet the earth on the horizon, the movement of clouds blown by the wind, the flashes of lightning - all these things speak of the magnificence of our awe-inspiring God who dwells in, and rules over, the universe.

Land and sea also display the greatness of God. He determined where they should be and how far they should extend. Mountains and rivers show God’s complete control over the powers of nature, so that the land is well watered and able to support life. Because of God’s control, the earth supplies people and animals with food, and with all the other materials necessary for them to live in safety and security. He arranges seasons and weather, night and day, so that the natural world can meet the needs of the various forms of life. The vast seas speak further of God’s greatness. They are full of the most wonderful and strange creatures of every size, shape, and design. Ships sail on the seas for distances farther than the eye can see or the mind imagine.

The word “manifold” in verse 24 means many and various. The Hebrew root word means to increase, be many, be more, multiply. The Psalmist here proclaims, “how many and various are your works!” The uncounted millions of species in the animate creation include not merely the larger units of the creation, but innumerable beings that are almost infinitely small, not merely insects, and the tiniest creatures of the sea and the sub-microscopic beings. All of this great host of creatures both great and small that God made are fitted into an ecological system so great and so complicated that no man has ever, nor ever could understand all of it.

The earth is not merely suited for one class of inhabitants, but for an almost endless variety; and the wisdom of God is manifested alike in the number and in the variety. No one can estimate the “number” of beings God has made on the earth; no one can comprehend the richness of the variety. No one can comprehend the limitless brilliance of our Creator who masterminded the whole thing.

Take some time today to consider God’s amazing world and His creative acts. Step back from your routines and focus on the amazing capacity of your Heavenly Father as demonstrated by his wildly wonderful world. As you do. like the Psalmist you will be moved to declare “O my soul, bless God!” (Psalm 104:1)

November 19 -- "Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 102

"Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus"

In Psalm 102, David is writing as one afflicted and cast down. Life, once again, has become tough – perhaps even unbearable. He calls his trial a “day of distress” and describes his heart as being “struck down like grass.” He is lonely. His enemies taunt him. He is groaning loudly at life’s difficulties. He has his eyes on himself and his troubles and it has brought him sadness.

Halfway through this Psalm, David turns his eyes off of himself and looks upward toward God and His throne in Heaven. At this point, his whole demeanor changes from one who is cast down to one who is in awe at the greatness and majesty of his God. He begins to remember that God is on His throne and He will act when the time is right. He reminds himself that God has a plan and a purpose for this world and one day He will “build up Zion and appear in His glory.” As his eyes turn upward, David’s heart is filled with thoughts of our eternal and unchangeable God. What a difference our perspective makes! If you are in distress today, stop looking at your trial and look up instead. Like David, when you look upward, your heart will turn from sadness to awe.

David goes on to reflect on the fact that God created the heavens and the earth – and He did it without any difficulty. With the mighty power of His word, our physical universe came into existence. “Of old You laid the foundation of the earth and the heavens are the work of Your hands.” In verse 26, David compares the difficulty factor of God creating the universe to changing a robe. How difficult is it for you to change robes? It is one of the simplest and unchallenging tasks we can thing of. Well, that’s how difficult it was for God to bring our physical universe into existence! And one day, He will “change robes” and bring a whole new world into existence. Our universe is not eternal, but our Lord is! The world will pass away like a robe being changed, but “You are the same and Your years have not end.”

Our God is eternal and unchangeable. He is unlike anything or anyone we could ever know or imagine. He is one of a kind, unique and without comparison. Even describing him with mere words truly falls short of capturing who He is – our words simply cannot do justice to describe an indescribable Being.

Our Lord is self-existing, without origin, and eternal. He has always been and will always be. And God does not change. In fact, He is not capable of change. Who He is - never changes. His attributes are the same from before the beginning of time into eternity. His character never changes – He never gets “better” or “worse.” His plans do not change. His promises do not change.

So, dear follower of Christ, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in His wonderful face. And the things of earth will grow strangely dim in the light of His glory and grace.” Do you see Him? Keep looking upward until you, like David, see the greatness and majesty of God.

November 18 -- "He Knows What You're Made Of"

Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 10 & Psalm 103 

"He Knows What You're Made Of"

Psalm 103 by David is amazing! We aren't exactly sure when he penned it, but he (knowing all about God's grace and forgiveness) probably wrote it most likely when he was older and really felt the care and mercy of God. This Psalm is straight-up fire - pure praise! Possibly the most praise-centered chapter in the whole Bible.

In this poem, David shouts out to the LORD for all the amazing blessings and perks. Right at the start, David’s heart is all about blessing the Lord - praising and honoring God for who He is and what He's done. Then, in the middle part, David lists all the insane benefits he’s scored from his connection with the Lord: forgiveness, healing, redemption, love, satisfaction, righteousness, justice - you name it! God's acts of kindness towards His people are mind-blowing and totally undeserved, yet He's coming through anyway. What else can you do but bless and praise Him!

As the Psalm winds down, David compares his Heavenly Father to a caring earthly parent. Just like a good dad looks after and has empathy for his kids in their weaknesses, God shows compassion to those who respect Him. Our Heavenly Father understands our human limitations, showing deep love and mercy for our ignorance, weaknesses, and mess-ups.

God totally gets us. He knows us inside out, even more than we know ourselves. When we beat ourselves up over mistakes, God doesn’t. He's not about being strict and demanding, but full of compassion and kindness. So, don't be so hard on yourself! Know that you're flawed, and when you mess up, turn to your Heavenly Father and grab onto His compassionate, forgiving love.

David wraps it up by calling on his own soul to bless God - to give Him the honor and praise He deserves. Straight up, "Bless the LORD, O my soul!" 

November 17 -- "Crying Out To God"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 88

"Crying Out To God"

Psalm 88 was written by “Heman the Ezrahite.” Heman was a musician. He was a Levite chosen by King David to be a minister of music. He served as both a singer and instrument player, known as a trumpeter and cymbal player. Heman served in Israel’s temple worship. He was one of those who were chosen and expressly named to give thanks to the Lord, whose steadfast love endures forever. His main ministry consisted of crying out to God in prayer.

Psalm 88 is part of a family of Psalms known as the “Laments.” In a Lament, the Psalmist brings his complaints and problems to God. The Laments include Psalms 3, 22, 42, 43, 44, 69, 80, 109, and here with Psalm 88.

The key to understanding these types of Psalms is to recognize that God allows us to express our emotions – even when those emotions question His faithfulness. He longs for us to cry out to Him when our hearts are hurting or when our minds are questioning life and its complications.  Psalms of Lament remind us that God is big enough to deal with our complaints and questions.

As Christians, we can experience problems, complaints and hurting hearts. We can even feel that God has let us down. Or maybe we’re worried about the future. We can feel lonely and afraid. It is these moments of life that we must do as Heman did – cry out to the Lord and let our prayer come before Him. And we must do so with all honesty and vulnerability. If our hearts are hurting, we should tell Him so. We mustn’t do the “Christian” thing and simply say, “We praise You God for being so wonderful. You have provided all our needs. I am so thankful that You are in control” when that’s not what we are really feeling.

It is okay to say to the Lord, “You have put me in the lowest pit, in the darkest depths.” It is okay to question what is going on, “Why, O Lord, does it seem like You reject me and hide Your face from me?” God is not afraid of your honest questions. He will not shut you out if you come to Him and honestly cry out to Him in life’s moments you can’t understand. He would much rather hear your honest and sincere cries than your fabricated praises.

So, like Heman, you must express your lament by crying out to the Lord. Take time right now to make sure your prayer comes before Him – even if it is a problem or complaint. Pray in the morning. Pray in the daytime. Pray in the nighttime. But, whatever you do, be sure take your case before your Heavenly Father. Lay your burden on Him. He can carry it! His word to you is, “Bring it on!”

November 16 -- "Flourish Like the Palm and Cedar"

Today’s Reading: Psalm 92 & 93 

"Flourish Like the Palm and Cedar"

Have you ever considered the flourishing of the palm or cedar tree? Here in Psalm 92, the Psalmist compares the palm and cedar to the righteous person. He says that this person’s life will flourish in much the same way as the palm tree flourishes and the cedar tree grows.

A palm is a kind of tree that typically grows in tropical regions and has a straight, tall trunk and many large leaves at the top of the trunk. The figure of the palm tree gives us the idea of usefulness. At the time Psalm 92 was written, palm tree dates made up a large part of the diet of the people of Israel, Arabia, Persia, and Egypt. The palm seeds (or ‘stones’) were ground down and used to feed camels; the leaves were made into baskets; the strong fronds were used to make fences; the sap was used to make a drink called arrack; the webbing from the outer layers made ropes and riggings for small boats; the wood was used for small buildings and for firewood. A flourishing palm tree was a useful and desirable blessing.

The cedars of Lebanon are a symbol of majesty, stability, durableness, and incorruptibility. Many cedars are very old and very large – measuring up to 130 feet tall and 70 feet across the limbs. Cedar trees, unlike the palm, have deep and expansive root structures. Cedars can live from 150 to 1,000 years. Cedars work well as windbreaks, helping to protect other trees from strong winds. The hard wood of the cedar was used for construction of buildings which needed strong, stable framing.

Here in Psalm 92, the Psalmist says the “righteous” flourish like the palm and grow like the cedar. This is a picture of the person who is right with God and, as a result, lives a strong, durable, and useful life. The palm illustrates the prosperity and happiness of the righteous person. His/her life will be used by God for many useful purposes in the Kingdom of God. The reference to being planted in the house of the Lord is probably drawn from the Jewish custom of planting palm trees in the courts of temples and palaces – adding beauty and usefulness. God’s people will prosper like palm trees and are planted by Him to bring beauty and usefulness to His church.

The cedar illustrates the strength and durability of God’s righteous person. Like a cedar, their lives are not moved or shaken by the winds of trial and challenge. And like the cedar, their lives provide a place of security and protection for the other “trees” (believers) around them.

To flourish like a palm, and grow like a cedar is God’s plan and purpose for your life. Seek Him first and all these things will be added to you. Follow after His righteous plan, submit to His purpose and you will continue to “bear fruit in old age and be ever full of sap and green” (Psalm 92:14).

November 15 -- "His Unalterable Word"

 Today’s Reading: Psalm 89

"His Unalterable Word"

Unlike human beings, who seem to be born with the ability to lie, God does not have that ability. His very nature is so pure, holy, and filled with light, that it is impossible for Him speak untruth or to alter the words He has spoken. The Lord will never lie to us or mislead us. He will always tell us the truth and stand by the truth He has told us.

What an amazing attribute of God that we rarely consider - the unalterableness of His words. Because of His moral perfection, He has absolute integrity. He never deceives; He never distorts; He never misrepresents what He says or does. Lying is against His nature. And, because God cannot lie, God’s Word, the Bible, is completely trustworthy.  “Every word of God is flawless” (Proverbs 30:5). We can rely fully on the truth of His word and build our lives on something that does not alter.

In verse 34 the Lord says that “I will not violate my covenant.” God has entered into a covenant – a contract with humanity and He will abide by it completely. What is this covenant? It is the promise that God makes with us that He will forgive sin and restore fellowship with those whose hearts are turned toward Him based on our faith in the blood of Christ, the Mediator of the New Covenant. “This is the covenant I will make with the people of Israel after that time,” declares the Lord. I will put my law in their minds and write it on their hearts. I will be their God, and they will be my people… for I will forgive their wickedness and remember their sins no more.” (Jeremiah 31:31-34)

Rest assured today, follower of Christ, that God will not violate His contract with humanity. Let your faith rest full on His unalterable word. Place your confidence and trust in the Lord who cannot lie. Build your life on the solid-rock of God’s unchanging word. “All other ground is sinking sand.”

November 14 -- "Faithful to the Unfaithful"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 8 & Psalm 78:49-72

"Faithful to the Unfaithful"

Psalm 78, written by Asaph, is the second longest Psalm in the Bible (Psalm 119 is the longest). It chronicles the history of Israel’s relationship with Yahweh, the Lord God. In the first section, Asaph recites the miraculous ways in which the Lord had intervened for Israel in the past. In the middle section, he describes Israel’s rebellion against the Lord, which resulted in God becoming furious at their sin and disobedience. Over and over, they rebelled. Over and over God loved them anyway. But they kept on giving Him a hard time, rebelled against God, and refused to do anything He told them. Until the day the Lord got so furious that he walked away from them and left them on their own.

In the final section of the Psalm, we read of the faithful God returning to Israel and restoring their broken relationship with Him. After a period of ignoring Israel, verse 65 tells us that suddenly the Lord “was up on his feet like someone roused from deep sleep.” He returned to Israel and intervened miraculously on their behalf once again. But this time, the Lord makes it clear that things are going to be different, starting with Shiloh, the center of worship for Israel.

Shiloh was a city in the territory of Ephraim just to the west of the Jordan River. This was the place that Joshua had established as the worship center for the nation. Under Joshua, the Tabernacle was set up in Shiloh and remained there for nearly 300 years, until the people defiled it and the city was conquered by the Phillistines, Israel’s fiercest enemy. Sadly, Israel had corrupted this place by their idolatry and pagan worship practices. As a result, the nation no longer had a central location for the spiritual gathering of the people.

When the Lord returns to the people, he disqualifies Shiloh and the tribe of Ephraim, saying that from now on, the worship center for Israel will be at Mount Zion. The Lord chose the territory of Judah instead, and selected Mount Zion, which he loves so much, as the place for His new sanctuary. Verse 69 says, “He built his sanctuary [in Mount Zion] like the high heavens, like the earth, which he has founded forever.” Why did He choose Mount Zion? Verse 68 simply tells us that it is a place that He loves. As He looked down on the Earth He created, He lovingly sets His eye on this place as His favored place. Just as you and I have favorite places we love to go, so does our God – He loves Mount Zion. And to this day, the center of worship for Israel is in Jerusalem situated in God’s favorite place.

All of this demonstrates the faithfulness of God to an unfaithful people. Like a father’s love for His children, the Lord had mercy on His chosen nation. He would not remain angry forever, but – despite their disobedience and rebellion – He returned to them and brought His glory and blessing and holy worship back upon Israel.  In the same way, we often go through times of disobedience and sin in our walk with the Lord. When that happens, we feel distanced from the Lord and our spirit begins to get dry and weary. But our God is faithful even to His unfaithful people and will not allow us to be separated for long. He will awake! He will return to us! He will restore us to a vibrant and growing relationship with Himself.

November 13 -- "Why Don't People Believe?"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 7 & Psalm 78:25-48

"Why Don't People Believe?"

In Psalm 78, Asaph the Psalmist is reciting some of the awesome things which the Lord has done for the people of Israel. He reminds them of many of the wonders and miracles God performed on their behalf – like parting the Red Sea, leading them with a cloud and fire, cracking open a rock to produce water in the desert, raining down food from heaven, routing their enemies from the Promised Land, and many more. After all of this, why didn’t they believe? Why did they continue to sin and rebel against God?

Why didn't everyone believe in Jesus during His lifetime? He did so many miracles that it seems like everyone would have believed in Him, and yet they didn't. John 12:37 says, “Even after Jesus had performed so many miracles in their presence, they still would not believe in him.” Why not?

Why wouldn’t they believe? For the same reason some people today don’t believe, although they’ve heard the Bible’s message that God loves them, and that Christ died to give them new life, both now and forever. Many have seen the miraculous work of God as He transforms the lives of people, yet they still do not believe. It is a strange paradox found in Scripture – seeing a miracle does not always produce faith.

The problem is inside of us — in the stubbornness of our hearts and wills. We want to run our own lives — and we know that if we yield ourselves to Christ, we can’t keep on living the way we once did.  So, we hold on to our notions and imaginations and false belief systems and we refuse to believe the truth.

In reality, of course, people today come up with all kinds of excuses not to believe in Jesus or yield their lives to Him — just as they did in Asaph’s time and in Jesus’ time. Pride, a favored sin, doubt, peer pressure, fake science - these and countless other excuses keep Jesus out of peoples’ lives. Jesus taught us that “Light has come into the world, and people loved the darkness rather than the light because their works were evil. For everyone who does wicked things hates the light and does not come to the light, lest his works should be exposed” (John 3:19-20).

But it doesn’t have to be that way, because He alone offers us lasting hope in the midst of a world of despair and sin. Don’t let these things — or anything else — keep you from Christ. Instead, realize who He is and what He has done for you by His death and resurrection. Then by faith open your heart and life to Him. He wants to do a miracle in your heart and life today! “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32).

November 12 -- "Ministering With Song"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 6 & Psalm 78:1-24

"Ministering With Song"

Everybody has a place within the family of God! In today’s reading, we read of those who are called to minister with song. Verse 32 tells us that this group from the tribe of Levi “ministered with song before the tabernacle of the tent of meeting until Solomon built the house of the Lord in Jerusalem, and they performed their service according to their order.”

Music is an amazing gift from God. And those who play and sing unto the Lord are His blessing upon His church. Music is a “universal language.” It cuts across race, doctrinal differences, politics, and every other thing that divides people. God can use those who minister with song to bring unity, peace, joy, and rejoicing to His people.

Music was there at the beginning of humanity. The first musician is mentioned in Genesis 4:21: “His brother’s name was Jubal; he was the father of all those who play the lyre and pipe.” And music will be there at the end, as we read in Revelation 14:3 – “The voice I heard was like the sound of harpists playing on their harps,  and they were singing a new song before the throne and before the four living creatures and before the elders.”

King David could be described as the father of music ministry. It all started with the young David and his harp, ministering before Saul who was oppressed by a demon. Later on, David deemed music to be such an important part of our worship, that he set up this full time choir to minister in song at the house of the Lord. And we have been singing to the Lord together ever since.

Today, while debates and contentions regarding the type, method, and approach we take in music ministry rage on, it is certain that the ministry of song is a vital part of our spiritual journey.  We sing as a form of worship. The ministry of music has been established by God as a means of drawing us into His presence. We sing. He sings. The angels sing. What an amazing thing music is! As we minister to God in song, He ministers to our spirit with His peace, joy, and love.

If you have been gifted by God with musical talent (e.g. playing an instrument or singing) then let God use your talent to bless His people. Find a way to become part of the music ministry at your church. God has blessed you so you can be a blessing to others. For the rest of us, whether you have an excellent voice with perfect pitch doesn’t matter. What matters is that you make a “joyful noise unto the Lord” (Psalm 100:1).

November 11 -- "My People Did Not Listen"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 5 & Psalm 81

"My People Did Not Listen"

God longs for His people to listen to Him. It breaks His heart when they don’t – or worse, won’t. Here in Psalm 81, we are admonished by the Lord to listen to His voice or face unpleasant consequences if we don’t. It is a sad and tragic thing when the very people whom God has chosen, called, and adopted as His own children refuse to listen to Him.

In Psalm 81, the Psalmist Asaph is speaking during one of Israel’s national festivals. During these times, the people assemble to worship God, offer sacrifices to Him, and hear His word. At the beginning of this Psalm, Asaph calls the people to gather and blow the trumpet and sing praises to Yahweh. He reminds them of the great works the Lord has done on their behalf and exhorts them to remain faithful and devoted to Him. As the Psalm progresses, Asaph turns to a discussion of their failure to listen to the Lord and His commands. He declares that God is speaking but the people are not heeding His voice.

This was the great tragedy. God was ready to fill the listening and open hearts of His people, but they would not listen to or obey Him. They had become complacent in their faith and their ears had turned away from God’s voice. He charges the people of Israel with not listening and not submitting to the very God they claim to worship. Their hearts had grown cold. Their faith had lost it’s vigor.

This is why it is so important to keep our hearts tender towards the Lord and our inner-ear always open to His words. As time goes on for some believers, they begin to drift away from a passionate relationship with the Lord – just a little bit at first. Eventually, a little distance from God becomes greater until the point that life has become so entangled with other pursuits and other priorities that they shut out the Lord’s voice altogether. They become stubborn.

When this happens – watch out! Your God will not force His will upon you. If you choose to drift away from Him and become stubborn and stop listening, He will eventually give you over to your stubborn choices. He is so very patient, but there can come a time when He can be patient no longer. That’s what happened to Israel – God “gave them over to their stubborn hearts, to follow their own counsels.” It is a tragic moment when someone forsakes the flawless and powerful counsel of God to walk in their own ways and listen to their own counsel.

So make sure that you are diligent to keep your heart tender and open to Him and His voice. He wants to speak words of peace, grace, wisdom, and faith to you. Listen with your heart turned toward Him and you will hear!

November 10 -- "Enlarge My Border"

 Today’s Reading: 1 Chronicles 4 & Psalm 77

"Enlarge My Border"

Buried amongst the family names and genealogies in 1 Chronicles 4, is this hidden gem of a prayer. If you skim over this chapter, you might miss it as it is only one verse long. It is called the prayer of Jabez, written by a Jewish descendant of Abraham. It is short but powerful. As with many prayers found in the Bible, this prayer provides us with an excellent model we can follow in our own prayer lives.

Little is known of Jabez, other than he was a from the tribe Judah, he was an honorable man, and his mother named him “Jabez” (meaning “sorrowful” or “painful”) because his birth had been notably painful.  Can you imagine naming your child “sorrow” or “pain”? As Jabez prays, he “calls upon the God of Israel” and places five requests or petitions before Him.

First, he requests God’s blessing. Jabez acknowledges that the God of Israel is the source of all blessing, and he asks God to make sure that those blessings fall his way. He longed to be “under the spout where the glory comes out!”  What a great way to begin our petitions before God – Lord, make me the recipient of your blessings.

Second, he asks the Lord to “enlarge his border.” By this request, Jabez is asking the Lord to give him a large territory of both land and influence. As followers of Christ, we should be constantly seeking to increase our influence and our impact on the world around us, Have you had the blessing of serving Christ in ministry? Pray for God’s success on your ministry and that He would enlarge your border to bring greater impact for His kingdom.

Third, he makes sure that God’s hand will be with him. This was Jabez’s way of asking for the guidance of God and His strength to be evident in his daily existence. He wisely realized that he doesn’t need or want a larger territory or ministry UNLESS the Lord is there with him. This is similar to Moses’ prayer in Exodus 33:15, “If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here.” A larger ministry is a terrifying thing if God isn’t in it! Pray that the Lord’s hand be with you every step of the way.

Fourth, he prays that God would keep him from harm. Realizing that without the Lord as his Protector and Defender, he risks the peril of harm. But if God is for him and with him, nothing can truly harm him. The Lord promises that “no harm will befall” His children (Psalm 91:10). This doesn’t mean that we are exempt from trials and challenges and injury. It means that whatever we go through with God on our side will not harm our eternal spirit.

Finally, Jabez requests that he, himself, would do no harm. In this final petition, he plays on his name, “Sorrow” or “Pain” and prays that it would not be so. He longs for his life to make a positive influence on others and to ease their pain. So, he says, “Lord don’t let my name become reality.” As followers of Christ, we often come across sensitive situations where doing the wrong thing, or saying the wrong thing, could bring someone else pain or, worse yet, keep them from coming the Christ. We must pray that this is never the case.